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Isolation and Characterization of Airborne Mushroom Damaging Trichoderma spp. from Indoor Air of Cultivation Houses Used for Oak Wood Mushroom Production Using Sawdust Media

Summary

This research examined harmful fungi that contaminate indoor mushroom cultivation facilities in Korea. The study found four species of Trichoderma fungi floating in the air that can damage mushroom production. The researchers identified effective antifungal treatments and highlighted the importance of air quality management in mushroom farms. Impacts on everyday life: – Helps protect commercial mushroom production, ensuring stable supply to consumers – Identifies ways to reduce crop losses and keep mushroom prices stable – Improves understanding of indoor air quality management in agricultural facilities – Provides guidance for safer and more efficient mushroom cultivation – Demonstrates the importance of proper sanitization in food production facilities

Background

Oak wood mushroom (Lentinula edodes, shiitake) is a valuable medicinal and edible mushroom with anticancer and anti-obesity effects. Its production in Korea has been increasing, with output reaching 23,469 tons and 219.1 billion won in 2016. While traditionally grown on log beds, sawdust media cultivation in controlled indoor environments is becoming more common. However, Trichoderma species contamination poses a major threat to production, causing up to 20% damage rates.

Objective

To analyze airborne Trichoderma species present in oak wood mushroom cultivation houses and generate information for disease management development. The study aimed to identify and characterize Trichoderma species isolated from indoor air samples, examining their growth properties, enzyme activities, antagonistic effects on mushroom mycelia, and sensitivity to antifungal agents.

Results

From 1,063 total fungal isolates, 248 (20.16%) were identified as Trichoderma species. Four species were identified: T. harzianum (55.08%), T. atroviride (22.03%), T. citrinoviride (16.53%), and T. pseudokoningii (6.35%). All species showed rapid growth on tested media and produced multiple extracellular enzymes capable of degrading sawdust substrate. They demonstrated antagonistic effects against mushroom mycelia in dual culture tests. Benomyl was found to be the most effective antifungal agent against all four species.

Conclusion

The study revealed significant presence of four Trichoderma species in cultivation house air that can potentially contaminate sawdust media and inhibit mushroom growth. The findings demonstrate the need for proper air management in cultivation houses to prevent contamination. Benomyl was identified as the most effective antifungal agent for facility disinfection.
  • Published in:The Plant Pathology Journal,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.5423/PPJ.FT.10.2019.0261
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